Why Pursue a Career In Skilled Trades Right Out of High School
The average annual HVAC technician salary in Ontario ranges between $45,000 and $100,000. However, these salaries vary based on regions, areas of expertise, and years of experience. Let’s learn more about HVAC technicians, their work, and where to start your HVAC apprenticeship journey.
What Is An HVAC Technician?
An HVAC technician is a skilled professional who repairs and installs heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems in commercial and residential buildings. The job requires mental prowess, along with physical durability.
Due to their work, HVAC technicians often come across dangerous situations that require protective equipment and complete and advanced trade knowledge. That’s why HVAC technicians must be licensed before offering their services in Ontario.
How Much Do HVAC Technicians Make in Ontario?
In Ontario, the average HVAC technician's salary ranges between $30.94 and $40.28 per hour.
This varies depending on the following factors:
- Location—More urban cities with higher demand offer higher HVAC technician salaries than those in rural areas
- Industry and Employer Type—Commercial HVAC work involving complex requirements pays more than residential HVAC work
- Level of Education—Knowledge in related fields, such as mathematics, sciences, and electronics, help in the trades.
- Certifications and Licenses—Certifications and licenses, such as Gas Technician (G1 to G3) and Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Systems, qualify you for more complex, high-paying jobs.
- Experience—Those with more experience receive higher wages. Pre-apprenticeship training courses help jumpstart this.
The HVAC industry offers many job opportunities and security. With high demand, you can find many opportunities to increase your experience in different fields.
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Types of HVAC Technicians and Salary Differences
There are four main types of HVAC technicians with different specializations. The more complex the job requirement, the higher the salary. Let’s discuss their roles and responsibilities below.
Installation and Design HVAC Experts
Average hourly salary: $82,218
Installation and design HVAC technicians deal with problems related to installing and fixing HVAC systems. They work closely with HVAC engineers to calculate the right pressure, size the equipment and components accurately, and design and install elaborate ductwork.
Commercial HVAC Technicians
Average yearly salary: $69,908
As the name indicates, commercial HVAC technicians are HVAC specialists for industries and businesses working with designs, equipment, and units on a large scale. Commercial HVAC technicians are responsible for accurately installing systems that keep the switch and server rooms cool. Any mistake on their part can cause irreparable damage to sensitive data.
Learn more: Residential vs Commercial Construction Career
Refrigeration HVAC Technicians
Average yearly salary: $84,533
Also known as HVACR technicians, refrigeration technicians install, maintain, and repair refrigerators, ice machines, and freezers in residential and commercial buildings. They usually work with food suppliers, distributors, storage facilities, and restaurants that require large refrigeration units.
General Service Experts
Average yearly salary: $62,033
A general service HVAC technician is an expert who deals with house calls related to everything HVAC. They install, maintain, and repair HVAC units so homeowners can enjoy cozy temperatures all year round. Since they work at a general level, they have a lower salary than those in specialized HVAC fields.
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How to Increase HVAC Technician Salary in Ontario
Like in any field, increasing one's salary in the HVAC industry requires learning new knowledge and upskilling. Here are some tips on raising your salary as an HVAC technician:
Attend Courses
Learning from industry leaders in a certified HVAC technician course can help boost your career growth. They’re specifically designed according to the expertise levels of individuals taking these classes. Find out what matches your requirements, enroll, and start learning.
Get Additional Certifications
Certifications prove your trade knowledge and expertise, qualifying you for more complicated, higher-paying jobs. Here are a few certifications that can help you get a pay raise as an HVAC technician:
- EPA 608: Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) 608 certification is mandatory for technicians who work with refrigerants. It demonstrates the holder's knowledge to safely handle these chemicals. EPA 608 can help you get a better salary as well.
- NATE: North American Technical Excellence (NATE) certification allows technicians to demonstrate their expertise in all areas of HVAC services. Technicians with NATE certifications are highly sought after by employers.
- HVAC/R: The HVAC/R certification combines both the HVAC and refrigeration expertise and demonstrates a technician’s ability to efficiently install, maintain, repair and service these systems.
- RSES: The Refrigeration Service Engineers Society (RSES) grants this certification to individuals who have gained in-depth knowledge of multiple areas within HVAC systems. It’s a great way to climb the ladder and showcase your technical expertise to potential employers.
Work on Complex Projects
Diversifying your portfolio can help you land more clients in different fields. Individuals trained to handle challenging tasks are paid heavily. For example, working on a multi-storey building’s HVAC system allows you to troubleshoot problems unique to commercial buildings.
These include intricate systems handling, system balancing, and installing complex HVAC wiring and duct systems for commercial buildings.
Similarly, someone working with industrial-grade HVAC systems like industrial chillers will learn about temperature control and the delicacy/impact of their work under strict regulations.
These complexities could be your way to earn more money. Hone your skills, respond to tough calls, and climb up the ladder.
Change your Location
Some locations offer more opportunities and higher salaries than others. For example, an HVAC technician in Toronto, Ontario can make more than their peers working in other regions due to higher demand in the city.
How to Start Your Journey as an HVAC Technician
To become an HVAC technician in Ontario, you must finish high school, complete an apprenticeship, and get your license. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown on how to become an HVAC technician:
- Enroll in a Pre-Apprenticeship Program: Though not required, pre-apprenticeship programs are a great way to gain experience before enrolling in your formal training. Consider an HVAC pre-apprenticeship program that combines knowledge with practical experience.
- Get Your High School Diploma: A high school diploma or GED certificate is required to become an HVAC technician. Get a good grip on mathematics, chemistry, physics, and technical education.
- Finish Mandatory Apprenticeship: The TSSA (Technical Standards and Safety Authority) requires an apprenticeship with 720 hours of in-school training and 8,280 hours of paid on-the-job training for those who want to become a licensed HVAC technician. You can apply through the Ontario Ministry of Training to secure one.
- Get a License: Different HVAC licenses determine the range of work you can do as an HVAC technician. These include air conditioning systems, Gas Technician licenses (G1, G2 and G3) and refrigeration and air conditioning systems. Each license has different requirements, hours, and examinations.
Begin Your HVAC Technician Journey at Skilled Trades College of Canada
HVAC technicians typically work long days and often travel from one city to another. This can mean working solo and under pressure. Such instances require an individual to be well-trained and well-informed.
Skilled Trades College of Canada provides certified HVAC courses for beginners and seasoned professionals. We equip learners with the knowledge and skills required to perform at the top of their respective fields and get a better HVAC technician salary.
Our skilled team will help you get the right knowledge and show you how to get an HVAC license. Ready to become an HVAC technician? Contact us today!
